1879 Events links up with Sound Waves 2013

A leading North East events company has landed its first local authority contract for a major music event later this summer.

1879 Events Management, a subsidiary of Sunderland AFC, has been appointed by South Tyneside Council to act as a ticketing agent and catering supplier for Sound Waves 2013, which is being co-headlined by Little Mix and McFly at Bents Park, South Shields on Sunday, August 25.

As part of the new contract the box office at the Stadium of Light will sell tickets for the Bank Holiday event, while 1879 Events Management will provide catering services for the thousands of music fans that are expected to attend.

Cllr Ernest Gibson, Mayor of South Tyneside Council, said: “1879 Events Management has a proven track record for successfully delivering large scale events. This experience, coupled with their enthusiasm and highly competitive tender, made them the perfect suppliers for Sound Waves 2013 and we look forward to working with them in the run up to the big event.”

1879 Events Management, which currently manages the catering and events services at the Stadium of Light, as well as National Glass Centre in Sunderland, has worked on a number of high profile events since being established in 2012, including the recent Newcastle Pride.

This latest contract, its first from a local authority, represents a clear strategy by the firm to diversify into a wide range of sectors and expand its range across the entire North East.

It also marks the first time that the Stadium of Light’s box office has sold tickets for an external event, having previously concentrated on match day sales and its own in-house concerts, headlined most recently by Bon Jovi, Rihanna and JLS.

Gary Hutchinson, Commercial Director for SAFC, said: “Over the last 12 months 1879 Events Management has proven it can cater effectively for a wide range of events, from delivering fine dining for corporate dinners to feeding thousands of hungry music lovers at Newcastle Pride.

“We are delighted that these capabilities have been recognised by South Tyneside Council and hope to work with more of the region’s local authorities in the very near future.”

Sound Waves 2013, which is being co-headlined by Little Mix and McFly, will also feature live performances by X Factor winner Joe McElderry, Britain’s Got Talent finalists, Luminites and boyband The Vamps.

Tickets for the event, priced at £20 each (additional charges may apply) will be available to buy from the Stadium of Light box office in person or on 0871 911 1973 from Monday, July 22.